Trillium Lake Loop Trail

Route Description for Trillium Lake Loop Trail

The Trillium Lake Loop Trail is a fantastic hiking route that is popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts of all varieties; however, it can be difficult to access in the later months of the year when Mount Hood National Park experiences seasonal road closures. Be sure to plan ahead if you are looking to experience the Trillium Lake Loop Trail outside of the summer months.

The easy to navigate and well-maintained pathways along the Trillium Lake Loop Trail make for an excellent adventure, no matter your age or skill level. Take your time meandering along the shoreline and gazing out across the water to Mount Hood or set up your tent at the nearby campground to fully explore the area over a period of a few days. No matter how you decide to explore this corner of Mount Hood National Forest, the Trillium Lake Loop Trail is a great route to experience!

Setting out from the trailhead in the southeast corner of Trillium Lake, you will follow the path as it leads southwest along the shoreline, quickly passing by a scenic viewpoint that extends across the water. At the southern end of the loop, you will arrive at the edge of Still Creek Road, turning right and following it across the dam.

After crossing the dam, keep right along the trail to leave the road behind, following the path as it skirts the shoreline and passes through a stretch of forest. Eventually, the trail will cut across some marshy areas and loop around to the south. Here, you will once again follow the water’s edge until you arrive back at the trailhead where you began the Trillium Lake Loop Trail.

If you are looking for some more activities in the area, consider hanging around for a swim or to paddle the waters of Trillium Lake. If you are after another lakeside hike in Mount Hood National Forest, the Timothy Lake Loop Hike is a great option to explore.

Trail Highlights

Trillium Lake

Located 12.1 km southwest of Mount Hood, Trillium Lake is a popular day use area within Mount Hood National Forest. Trillium Lake covers an area of 65 acres and has a maximum depth of 6 m, making it ideal for water sport activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and paddling. Historically, the area upon which the lake sits was a marshy stretch of the Oregon Trail, before being dammed and turned into a lake in 1960.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in Trillium Lake?

Yes, swimming is permitted in Trillium Lake, as are other water sports such as boating and fishing.

How Deep is Trillium Lake?

Trillium Lake has a mean depth of 2 m and is 6 m at its deepest point.

Insider Hints for Trillium Lake Loop Trail

• Arrive early for this hike, as the trail can become very busy during peak season.
• Plan for a fun weekend of camping at the nearby Trillium Lake Campground.
• Be sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times.